BELGIUM
Flanders
Comparability of qualification levels | A first proposal contained a 10-level structure but –influenced by the discussion on the EQF – was reduced to an 8 levels structure described by two main categories of knowledge/skills and context/autonomy/responsibility = Act on the Qualification Structure |
Use of learning outcomes in HE & CE | The learning outcomes approach is not new to the Flemish education and training system (inspired by the Dutch System) |
National legislation on EQF levels 5-8 | It was acknowledged that while higher education institutes (universities and university colleges) have a ‘monopoly’ on the bachelor, master and doctorate titles, this does not rule out the parallel (at levels 6-8) placing of vocationally oriented qualifications. Several stakeholders from adult education institutions providing higher VET courses for adults asked explicitly for the placing of VET qualifications at levels 5 or 6. The 2009 Act underlines that the two main types of Flemish qualifications, professional and educational qualifications. |
Level of implementation of NQF | FQS 2009 Act is a systematic classification of recognized qualifications based on a generally adopted qualifications framework. The referencing report is expected to be prepared in 2010 |
Recognition of prior learning | not mentioned |
e-Learning implementation | 10 EDEN members, no EADL members |
Openness to virtual mobility | WHO usage yes, some barriers reported |
Wallonia
Comparability of qualification levels | An 8 level structure will be applied, to a large extent reflecting the EQF descriptors. |
Use of learning outcomes in HE & CE | learning outcomes are integral to a range of recent and ongoing reforms |
National legislation on EQF levels 5-8 | The approval in May 2008 of a separate decree binding levels 6-8 to the bachelor, master and doctorate cycles of the EHEA confirmed this. Although still not formally expressed, a common view seems to be that levels 6-8 need to be opened up to non-academic qualifications, for example advanced vocational qualifications. |
Level of implementation of NQF | The work on an overarching NQF responding to the EQF was initiated by the joint government of the Belgian French Community in March 2006. It is expected that a referencing report will be presented to the EQF AG in 2010. |
Recognition of prior learning | not mentioned |
e-Learning implementation | 10 EDEN members, no EADL members |
Openness to virtual mobility | WHO usage yes, some barriers reported |